Helping Combat Wounded Veterans Catch A Lift

Background.

The Catch A Lift Fund helps post 9/11 combat wounded veterans regain their mental and physical health through gym memberships, in home gym equipment, personalized fitness and nutrition programs, and peer support network.

Catch A Lift was founded by Lynn Coffland, sister of Army Cpl. Chris Coffland, who lost his life in November of 2009 in Afghanistan while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom. Coffland believed that through fitness, one can reach their highest potential both mentally and physically.

Since day one, this has been the mainstay of Catch A Lift.

How does it work?

“Every veteran had to be at the top of their game, and they relished in that. It’s really them, growing outside of themselves, to be able to reach out and say, as a warrior, I need a little help,” said Lynn Coffland.

Catch A Lift always has their nose to the ground for those who need help, but any combat wounded post 9/11 veteran is eligible. The Catch A Lift grant cycle is for one year and in that year the veteran is able to choose between using the funds in a fitness facility or on home equipment.

And, any veteran that receives the grant is also introduced to the MAPS program; motivation, accountability, and peer support.

But there are many other benefits to the CAL program like further education in the fitness industry, yearly events teaming veteran members in athletic competitions involving community support, and squad leaders that help motivate and inspire each grant recipient all year long.

There’s also the Women’s Fitness Initiative, an initiative that gives combat wounded women a safe platform to grow through physical fitness.

How to get involved.

So many ways. You can host a Warrior Fit Weekend, volunteer to coordinate a Fitness for Heroes Challenge at your gym, host a fundraiser, or run on a CAL Endurance team. You can also become a CAL squad leader to help track veteran members throughout the year to make sure they’re reaching their goals while also being a support and a mentor. You can also donate to keep keep the grants going.